Putting New Learnings Into Practice
My Thread Experience: A Practice of Applied Knowledge
By Esi Franklin, Owner of Rootwork, LLC & Recipient of the CML Collective Scholarship, Cohort Two Member
“I would like to expand my connections with others that are in different fields than me, are of different cultures, and have different experiences than I might. I would like to expand my knowledge, broaden my perception, and find a way to apply all of the information I have learned to not only my professional life but my personal life, while making it my duty to share with others.”
These are the intentions I set during my first workshop with The Thread: a Women’s Leadership Initiative. To apply information is the ultimate measure of one's understanding of knowledge. I used to think I was a bit eclectic because of my desire to seek knowledge, but I now realize that obtaining knowledge is my purpose, along with making it accessible to others. As a licensed Masters Addictions Counselor, a business owner and mother of three, that is just what The Thread is allowing me to do.
I’ve attended six Thread workshops thus far and have already applied so much of what I have learned. Our first workshop was filled with introductions and expectations of cohort members. Even after that first workshop, I found myself better able to open up to new people, new outlooks, and new perspectives. Each cohort member may look different, but we're working toward very similar goals. My lesson applied: always remain open.
The second session focused on strengths. It was here that I better understood that our weaknesses are more complementary than negative. As we get to know and embrace our weaknesses, we become better leaders. I explained this ideology to my children as we, too, have to work together in understanding our strengths and weaknesses to have a functional, thriving family.
Workshop three focused on confidence. One of the biggest applications for me was to “think about my thinking”, including CAT (“crazy ass thoughts”). This behavior aids in being more present, and I have been able to implement it in both my professional life and personal life, specifically with my children.
Workshop four focused on emotional intelligence such as personal competence, self awareness and self management in the workplace. Although I was no newbie to the curriculum being taught, I highly enjoyed participating and took the lessons learned into the Psychoeducation and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy groups I lead. I especially enjoy practicing “This Means…” with my family before dinner as a way to offer them positive perspectives on anything that may be troubling them.
The workshop I attended today focused on “knowing your purpose and making sure that your values are in alignment.” This topic is something that I pride myself in - both in my professional and my personal life.
I have absolutely loved all of the workshops so far and my newly learned skills of debriefing, aptitude focusing, value finding, and self awareness building. The information presented has been life changing in such a short amount of time.
I’ll leave you with a few of my favorite Thread Workshop quotes. Many of these phrases and quotes have headlined my blogs, facebook posts, counseling sessions or served as early motivational messages to my family when starting their day. I am present, learning, and thoroughly making it my mission to apply what is being presented to me in all areas of my life.
“If you are present enough, you will hear something here today that will change your life.” - Kaity Robinson, The Brand 5
“How are you showing up today? Extraordinary or Average? Every day the choice is yours.” - Kaity Robinson, The Brand 5
“If you are not in a state of acceptance, enjoyment or enthusiasm, you are not only causing suffering for yourself but for others.” - Sarah Yost